Modern Studies - S3 Decision Making for Scotland
S3 Modern Studies
Decision Making for Scotland
After completing this unit pupils should be able to:
Level 3 (most pupils):
- Better interpret evidence and give an informed view - Understand the rights and responsibilities of citizens in Scotland - Understand the arrangements for political decision making in Scotland
Level 4 (some pupils)
- Evaluate conflicting sources of evidence to sustain a line of argument - Assess the importance of different individuals or groups in bringing about a significant political change - Evaluate the role of the media in Scotland and assess its importance in informing and influencing citizens and decision makers - Assess the impact of the Scottish Parliament on the lives of the people of Scotland - Explain why some people participate in the democratic process and why others do not - Explain reasons why some individuals and groups seek to achieve their aims by non-democratic means
Lesson 1 - Learning Intentions (Pupils should be able to):
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Modern Studies - S3 Decision Making for Scotland
1. Describe the rights of citizens in Scotland.
Human Rights
Everyone no matter where they live in the world has the same human rights. In 1948 the United Nations drew up a document called the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
The Universal Declaration of Human Rights
Everyone has the right to:
Life Vote Freedom of religion A fair trial
Freedom of speech Peaceful assembly Education
Freedom of movement Join a trade union An adequate standard of living
Heading: Human Rights
1. Which organisation drew up the Universal Declaration of Human Rights?
2. “The Universal Declaration of Human Rights is only for adults.” Mr Black
What information is there in the passage to oppose Mr Black?
3. Make two headings in your jotter. List the following under ‘Rights’ and ‘Not Rights’.
Write to newspapers Freedom of speech Demonstrate violently
Shout down people you do not agree with Join a political party
Complain to an MP/MSP Stand for election Stop the traffic
Put political posters in your window Say anything you like on social media
4. Which two human rights do you consider to be most important? Explain each of your answers.
5. Complete a drawing in your jotter to show one human right.
Extension: Video - Ask your teacher to let you see the Ch4 video: ‘Human Rights’ Lesson 2 - Learning Intentions (Pupils should be able to):
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1. Describe the responsibilities of citizens in Scotland.
Rights and Responsibilities
Everyone in entitled to human rights. However, with right there comes responsibilities. For example, if children have the right to an education, they also have the responsibility to come to school on time and to follow school rules. In the same way, if people have the right to march and demonstrate they must do this within the law.
Heading: Rights and Responsibilities
1. Which of the pictures below show rights and which responsibilities?
a) Making a speech b) No violence c) Attending school d) To demonstrate
2. Read the statements below then answer the questions which follow.
Voting, what’s the point? My vote Voting is a responsibility. Everyone won’t change anything. It’s a waste of should vote. It’s our chance to have time. My MP is meant to represent me our say in who runs the country. If but I never agree with anything she people did not use their right to vote says. I’ve never voted and never will. there would be no government and the Politicians just do what they want. country would fall apart. I always Kasey Butler vote. Sian Gilmore a) Explain one difference between Kasey and Sian when it comes to voting. b) Sian states that ‘voting is a responsibility’. What does she mean by this? c) Which of the two views do you agree with most? Give a reason for your answer. d) If people don’t vote, should they lose their right to criticise their MP or the government? Give a reason for your answer.
3. In Australia it is against the law not to vote. People can be fined if they don’t bother voting. Do you agree with this? Give a reason for your answer.
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4. Read the statement below then answer the question which follows.
Voting is an important right. When voting people elect their representatives such as MPs but they also elect a government. Voting will always get you the representative you want. Megan Cownie
Copy out the sentence from what is said by Megan which is exaggerated. Give a reason for your choice.
5. Some voters in elections deliberately spoil their ballot paper (see example right). Can you think of one reason why they may do this?
6. Complete a drawing in your jotter to encourage people to vote in elections.
Extension: Collect a copy of “Democracy in Scotland and the UK”. Read pages 4 and 5. Complete Q1 and Q2 page 5.
Further Learning: Groupwork
In groups, brainstorm to complete a spider diagram to show the responsibilities of adults in Scotland e.g. If parents, adults have the responsibility to send their children to school.
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Modern Studies - S3 Decision Making for Scotland
Lesson 3 - Learning Intentions (Pupils should be able to):
1. Better understand the arrangements for political decision making in Scotland.
Representation for Scotland
The United Kingdom (UK) is a democracy. A democracy is a country where the people choose their government. In the UK there are too many people to ask and too many decisions to take therefore representatives are elected to make decisions. Representatives include Members of Parliament (MPs), Members of the Scottish Parliament (MSPs) and local councillors.
For the UK Parliament in Westminster, London, MPs are elected every five years at a General Election. For the purposes of the General Election, the country is divided into 650 constituencies or areas. Each constituency elects one MP to Parliament. The last General Election was in 2015.
For the Scottish Parliament at Holyrood, Edinburgh, MSPs are also elected every five years. For the purposes of this election, Scotland is divided into 73 constituencies. Each constituency elects one MSP but there are also an additional 56 regional or list MSPs making 129 MSPs in total. The last election to the Scottish Parliament was in 2016. The next Scottish Parliament election is in 2016.
Note: If an MP or MSP dies or resigns a by-election is held to elect a new representative.
Wordbox: Democracy – A country where people choose the government. Representatives – People who act and speak on behalf of others. Government – Those elected to take decisions and run the country. Election / By-election – A vote to choose a representative. Constituency – The area an MP/MSP represents.
Heading: Representation for Scotland
1. Copy the wordbox above into your jotter.
2. In the United Kingdom everyone should meet together to make decisions.
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Using only the information on page 5 paragraph 1, do you agree or disagree with this view? Give two reasons for your answer. 3. i) What number of MPs are there in the UK? ii) What number of MSPs are there in total in Scotland?
4. Read the statement in the box below then answer the question which follows.
Elections in the UK are held every four or five years. The UK is a democracy. If your MP or MSP dies or resigns you lose you representative until the next election. Parliament is the place where MPs/MSPs meet to make decisions.
From the statement in the box above, choose one sentence that is exaggerated. Copy the sentence into your jotter and give one reason for your choice.
5. i) When will the next General Election be held? ii) When will the next Scottish Parliament election be held?
6. Study the views below then answer the question which follows.
UK Democracy Works Well UK Democracy Needs Improved
There is no need to change what is an There needs to be radical change to effective decision making system. the way in which democracy works in Having elections every five years Scotland and the UK. To begin with, gives government enough time to elections are too far apart at once improve the country before the every five years. Elections should be people decide if they should remain. held around every two years. Next There is a good balance of powers more decisions should be taken for between the Scottish and UK Scotland in the Scottish Parliament. parliaments. This gives Scotland the This would improve life in Scotland. best decisions from two parliaments. Finally, more use should be made of Finally, referenda are not the best referenda or single issue votes. This way in which to make decisions as would give people more say in the way many voters may make their mind up in which their country is run. without knowing the full facts. Mrs Cathro Mr Laird
Mr Laird and Mrs Cathro have different views on the way democracy works in Scotland and the UK. What are two of these differences? Use only the information in the table above.
Extension – Ask you teacher to show you the following clip of video: Democracy? You Decide
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Further Learning: Collect a copy of “Democracy in Scotland and the UK”. Read pages 5-7. Complete Q1 and Q2 page 9. Lesson 4 - Learning Intentions (Pupils should be able to):
1. Explain who can / cannot stand as a candidate in Scottish / UK elections. 2. Explain who can / cannot vote in Scottish and UK elections.
The Candidates and Who Can Vote
Who can be a candidate?
To be allowed to stand as a candidate in a Scottish / UK election you must:
1. Be 18 years of age or older (also 18 years to be a local councillor). 2. Pay a deposit of £500. This will be returned to the candidate if they achieve 5% of the total votes in the constituency. 3. Be nominated (supported by) 10 people who live in the constituency in which you stand.
Who can vote?
To vote in a constituency for a UK General Election you must not:
1. Be under the age of 18 years (16 for Scottish and local elections from 2016). 2. Be a prisoner in jail (this is under review; in some countries prisoners retain their right to vote). 3. Be a member of the House of Lords. 4. Be a visitor to the UK. 5. Be declared insane (unfit to vote). Note: The Queen and members of the Royal Family can vote but most choose not to vote.
Heading: The candidates and who can vote
1. Which two of the following people cannot stand as candidates in an election? Give a reason for each of your choices.
Liam McMillan Ben Somerville Leah Devlin Age 17 21 43
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Nominated by 10 people 14 people 6 people Deposit of £500 £500 £350
2. Study the information on the Smith family below. For each person say whether they can or cannot vote. For those who cannot vote, give a reason for your answer.
The Smiths – Ray (40), Lord Smith Uncle Rick Cousin Andy Uncle Barry (38) Abbie (39), Gran Alice (60) (58) from USA (19) HMP Perth Granda Joe (61), Tommy (8) (34) And Jess (5)
3. Although the majority of adults in the UK have the right to vote, many people choose not to use their right to vote. Look at the table below then answer the question which follows. Note: Turnout means percentage (%) using their vote.
Year 1979 1983 1987 1992 1997 2001 2005 2010 2015 Turnout 75.9 72.6 75.3 77.7 71.2 59.3 61.3 65.1 66.1 (%) i) What conclusion can be drawn about the turnout in UK General Elections at recent compared to the 1970s and 1980s? Give statistics to improve your answers. ii) Can you suggest two reasons why some people do not use their right to vote?
Extension – 2015 UK General Election Voting turnout in different parts of the UK
Study the bar graph below then answer the question which follows.
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Turnout by country percentage (%) UK General Election 2015 71.1 80 65.9 65.6 58.1 60
40
20
0 England Northern Ireland Scotland Wales
What conclusions can be drawn about voting turnout across the UK in the General Election of 2015? Give two conclusions in your answer.
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Lesson 5 - Learning Intentions (Pupils should be able to):
1. Give arguments for and against prisoners in the UK being allowed to vote. 2. Improve their group and presentation skills.
Should Prisoners Get the Vote?
In 2011 the European Court of Human Rights ruled that it was wrong for the UK to continue with a total ban on prisoners not being allowed to vote. This was the fourth time the Court had ruled against the UK’s total ban on prisoners voting.
In February 2012, the issue of people in prison in the UK being allowed to vote in elections was debated in the UK Parliament. After a vote, MPs decided to continue with the ban preventing all prisoners from voting. In most other European countries most prisoners are allowed to vote.
UK choices for the future:
• Continue to ban all prisoners from voting • Allow only prisoners serving one year or less to vote • Allow prisoners on short sentences (less than four years) to vote
Group learning activity
1. Divide into groups. One person should act as chair of the group. A second should record the findings of the group.
2. Think of two arguments for keeping a total ban on all prisoners voting.
3. Think of two arguments for allowing prisoners up to one year to vote.
4. Think of two arguments for allowing prisoners up to four years to vote.
5. Think of two arguments for not allowing those serving sentences of over four years to vote.
6. Think of two arguments for allowing everyone in prison to vote.
7. The group should now decide which one of the choices they support.
8. The teacher will ask one person from the group to report back to the rest of the class.
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Lesson 6 - Learning Intentions (Pupils should be able to): 1. Explain what is meant by a political party. 2. List the main political parties in Scotland and describe some of their policies.
Political Parties in Scotland
Political parties are groups of people who share the same views or ideology about the way Scotland and the UK should be run. These ideas or policies are written down in a document called a manifesto. In Scotland there are four main political parties – Conservative (sometimes called Tories), Labour, Liberal Democrat and the Scottish National Party (SNP). There are also smaller parties such as the Green Party. Each political party has its own ideas about the way the country should be run although there may be times when they agree on policy.
Policies of the main political parties in Scotland (as of Feb 2017)
Policy Conservative Labour Liberal Scottish Democrat National Party Taxation Lower taxes Higher taxes Less tax on Higher taxes wherever on wealthier; most people on wealthier; possible. less on less on poorest. poorest. Economy Lower taxes More Balance the Reduce for all types of apprenticeship budget. Cut business rates. business. s. More help small Invest more in for small business training and businesses. costs. jobs. Education Support More money More money No tuition / Health private for the NHS for the NHS fees. More schools/hospit and lower and mental money for the als. More tuition fees in care. No NHS. money for the England. tuition fees. NHS.
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Modern Studies - S3 Decision Making for Scotland
Policy Conservative Labour Liberal Scottish Democrat National Party Other Reduce Raise Minimum Extend No nuclear main government Wage. Improve childcare. weapons. policies debt. living Reduce Independence. Keep nuclear standards. nuclear Build more weapons. Reduce nuclear weapons. affordable weapons. homes.
Heading: Political Parties in Scotland
1. What is a political party?
2. What would be found in a political party manifesto?
3. Using the information given, which party would: i) Raise taxes on the wealthiest and make Scotland independent. ii) Give the NHS more money and raise the Minimum Wage. iii) Give greater help to all businesses and keep nuclear weapons. iv) Balance the budget and extend childcare.
4. Political parties never agree on policies. Amy Cunningham
Do you agree or disagree with the view of Amy? Give a reason for your answer.
5. Which party would you consider voting for? Give two reasons for your answer.
Collect a copy of “Democracy in Scotland and the UK”. Read pages 102-104 then complete Q1-Q7 page 104.
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Modern Studies - S3 Decision Making for Scotland
Lesson 7 - Learning Intentions (Pupils should be able to):
1. Describe the ways political parties’ campaign for votes.
Campaigning for Votes
In the lead-up to an election the different candidates and their parties will begin the process of getting constituents to vote for them. This is known as political campaigning. Political parties’ campaign using the promises they make in their manifesto. A good campaign can make the difference between winning and losing an election.
Campaigning is particularly important in constituencies (or seats) where there are many ‘floating voters’. A ‘floating voter’ is someone who is not committed to voting for the same party at every election and may change their vote. For example, they may vote Labour in one election and SNP at the next. While the parties can be sure of getting the votes of committed voters, it is often the ‘floating voters’ who decide who wins the election.
Sometimes people vote for a party other than the party with which they agree with most. This is known as tactical voting. For example, in Dundee West they may favour the Conservatives but instead vote SNP to keep out Labour.
Ways in which political parties’ campaign
A B C D
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Modern Studies - S3 Decision Making for Scotland
E F G H Now ask your teacher to let you see the video (no. 2) ‘Get Yourself Elected’.
Heading: Campaigning for votes
1. What is meant by political campaigning?
2. Explain why a good political campaign is important in an election.
3. What are ‘floating voters’?
4. Explain what is meant by tactical voting.
5. Match A – H on page 12 to the options below.
Election leaflets Election meetings Canvassing door-to-door Social media
‘Battle bus’ Election posters Leaders’ debate TV Party Political Broadcasts
6. Make a drawing in your jotter to show two ways political parties’ campaign to get votes.
Extension – Collect a copy of “Democracy in Scotland and the UK”. Read pages 10 – 14. Complete Q1-6 page 15.
Further Learning – Class debate
This class believes, “The voting age should be lowered for all elections to 16 years of age.”
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Lesson 8 - Learning Intentions (Pupils should be able to):
1. Understand and better identify bias in newspapers.
Bias in Newspapers
During an election campaign a great deal of attention and publicity is given to the policies and candidates of the different political parties by the media including newspapers. The most important newspapers during an election campaign are the popular papers (in England and Wales – the Sun, the Daily Mirror and the Daily Mail and in Scotland – the Daily Record and the Sun).
At election time most newspapers openly support one of the main political parties. In their support they can be very biased. The popular newspapers, in particular, are very open about who they want their readers to vote for. In the articles they carry, in their use of headlines and photographs, they will deliberately try to present their choice of party (and its leader) as better than any other. Within the law, newspapers can more or less print what they want about politics.
The Stun 7 May 2017 The Daily Recorder 7 May 2017 VOTE VOTE LABOUR CONSERVATIVE Ronnie Flair for 1. Today is election Prime Minister. day. Your vote What a guy! matters. You must make the right decision. You must At last election day has arrived. Now vote for a Conservative Scotland and is your chance to have your say. The UK. Conservatives would ruin the UK. Billy Wise is your man. His party has Ronnie Flair is the best leader the UK the right policies on employment, has. He is honest, understanding and schools and healthcare. Billy is caring. Vote for jobs. Vote for better honest, hardworking and a good family schools. Vote for a better NHS. You man. People will be better off. You cannot trust the Conservatives. If cannot trust Labour. Vote ‘Wisely’- you care about Scotland - Vote Vote Conservative. Labour. Tannadice Triumph – United champs again. Celts & ‘Gers relegated again. Dundee fold.
Heading: Bias in Newspapers
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1. Which type of newspapers are most important in an election campaign. Give two examples for England and Wales and two examples for Scotland. 2. In what ways do newspapers show they are biased? Give two examples.
3. Which newspaper on page 14 supports the Conservative Party? Give three pieces of information to support your choice.
4. Which newspaper on page 14 supports the Labour Party? Give three pieces of information to support your choice.
5. Look at the table below then answer the question which follows.
Newspaper backing at the 2015 UK General Election Newspaper Party Support Daily Circulation (sales) The Sun Conservatives 1.9m (Scotland – SNP) The Daily Mirror Labour 0.9m The Daily Record Labour 0.2m (Scotland only) Daily Mail Conservative 1.6m Daily Express UKIP 0.45m a) Which two newspapers have the highest daily circulation in the table? b) Overall, which political party was best supported by popular newspapers in the 2015 election? Give a reason for your choice. c) Read the statement below then answer the question which follows.
Newspapers supported different political parties in the 2015 UK General Election. The Sun had the highest circulation in the UK. All papers supported either the Conservatives or Labour. The Daily Record has 200,000 sales in Scotland. Navada Haggart
Choose one statement from what is said by Navada that is exaggerated. Give one reason for your choice.
6. Think about the result of the 2015 election (i.e. the party that won). Do you think it matters if newspapers are biased in which political party they support?
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Extension – 2015 General Election newspaper front pages. Look at the newspaper pages on the next page. Which party do you think they wish their readers to vote for? Give a reason for each of your answer.
Further Learning – Collect a copy of “Democracy in Scotland and the UK”. Read pages 121 – 123. Complete Q1-6 page 123. Lesson 9 - Learning Intentions (Pupils should be able to):
1. Explain that there is disagreement as to the extent which newspapers influence the way their readers’ vote.
The Influence of Newspapers on Voters
Although newspaper sales have been falling for a number of years millions of adults in the UK continue to buy a newspaper every day. There are also many other adults who read a newspaper on-line. So does this mean that newspapers influence their readers to vote for one party or another?
Most political commentators do not think that newspapers influence their readers although the majority of politicians think differently. Politicians believe that newspaper support is important in attracting the votes of ‘floating voters’ and that this can make a difference to their election success.
Arguments that newspapers do make Arguments that newspapers do not a difference in an election campaign make a difference in an election campaign • Parties with greater newspaper • Many people buy a newspaper support often tend to do for reasons other than politics better in elections • Many people who regularly buy • There are many ‘floating’ or newspapers make their mind up undecided voters and about their choice of party for newspaper support for a party reasons other than what they could make a difference to read in newspapers these voters • Some people who buy • Evidence suggests that people newspapers claim they do not who read the same type of know which party their political story regularly are newspaper supports, they don’t affected by what they read care and they don’t vote
Heading: The Influence of Newspapers on Voters
1. What has been happening to sales of newspapers for a number of years?
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2. Political commentators and politicians agree that newspaper strongly influence their readers when it comes to voting. Skye Mackie
Using only the information on this page, do you agree or disagree with the view of Skye? Give reason for your answer. 3. Give two arguments to support the view that newspapers do make a difference in an election campaign.
4. Give two arguments to support the view that newspapers do not make a difference in an election campaign.
5. Look carefully at the front pages of the Sun newspaper below. Both were printed on the same day in April 2015 a couple of weeks before the General Election. The front page on the left was the cover on the English edition of the Sun newspaper. The cover on the right was the Scottish edition of the Sun. a) What differences are there in what is said comparing the English edition to the Scottish edition? Make two points in your answer. b) Explain why the Sun may have different front pages on its Scottish and English editions?
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c) Both newspaper front pages relate to different events that were happening in April/May 2015 (other than the General Election). Any guesses as to what these events were?
Extension – Make up a biased front page in your jotter for the party that you support. Use a mixture of text and pictures to persuade readers to support your party.
Further Learning – Collect a copy of “Democracy in Scotland and the UK”. Study Table 4.5 page 123. Complete Q8 page 123.
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Lesson 10 - Learning Intentions (Pupils should be able to): 1. Explain that television reporting of politics must, by law, be unbiased. 2. Explain why party political broadcast are unlike other TV coverage of politics.
Television and Politics
Unlike newspapers, television is required by law to be politically fair and unbiased. Television programmes or channels cannot support any particular party. Television companies can produce programmes covering political issues but they cannot give any political opinion of their own.
Despite the law, it is very difficult for TV companies to remain fair. On occasion, politicians from all parties will claim that the TV reporting has been unfair to them. This is especially true at the time of an election. For example, in recent years, the Conservatives in the UK and the SNP in Scotland have accused the BBC of being politically biased although this is denied by the BBC.
To avoid political bias there are rules placed on TV companies when covering politics. First, TV reporters must be careful of the language they use when presenting political programmes. For example, reports on political parties must avoid language that gives viewers the idea that one party is ‘sensible’ and another ‘extreme’. Second, the wording of programmes should also aim to give the facts. Thirdly, when interviewing politicians, a reporter’s questions should be fair and each politicians should be given the same opportunity to respond.
Throughout the year politics is covered in news bulletins and programmes such as Panorama, Newsnight and Tonight. Studies show most adults gain their political news from the TV. At election time the political parties are allowed to show their own party political broadcasts (PPBs). Each PPB must go out on all major channels and the number of broadcasts each party can show depends on the electoral support they received at the previous election. In Scotland, the SNP and Labour as the two biggest parties get to show more programmes than any other party.
Party Political Broadcasts – Ask you teacher to visit the website below. Watch two or three of the PPBs. Make a note of which party produced the PPB and decide whether or not you thought it would influence you to vote for them. http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/group/p02mbgy3 #PartyPoliticalBroadcast - YouTube
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Heading: Television and Politics
1. What is the main difference between what newspapers and television can say about politics?
2. Explain why politicians from all parties complain about TV reporting of politics?
3. Give two rules that TV companies must follow when covering politics.
4. Give three examples of TV programmes that cover politics.
5. Why are party political broadcasts (PPBs) different from other forms of politics on TV?
6. For what reason do the SNP and Labour get to show more party political broadcasts than other parties in Scotland.
Extension – Party Political Broadcasts (PPBs) i) Which party’s political broadcast do you think was best? Give a reason for your answer. ii) Which party’s political broadcast do you think was worst? Give a reason for your answer. iii) Do you think PPBs influence electors? Give a reason for your answer.
Further Learning – The Leaders’ Debates
At the last two UK General Elections in 2010 and 2015, the BBC, ITV and Sky broadcast a series of TV debates between the leaders of the main political parties. In 2010, only the leaders of the Conservative Party, Labour Party and Liberal Democrat Party took part. Liberal Democrat leader Nick Clegg was judged to have done best over three debates although his party later came third at the election.
In 2015, a debate was held between the leaders of seven different parties including the SNP and the Green Party. There were several other debates but not all the party leaders were invited or agreed to take part. The seven party leader debate was watched by over 7m voters in April 2015. i) Why do you think party leaders want to appear on TV debates?
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ii) Do you think viewers are influenced by watching the party leaders on TV? Give a reason for your answer. Lesson 11 - Learning Intentions (Pupils should be able to):
1. Explain what is meant by opinion polls. 2. Better present information as a bar graph.
Opinion Polls
Opinion polls are surveys of the way electors would vote if there was an election that day. They are often presented on television and in the newspapers. Some of the major polling organisations which publish opinion polls include Ipsos-Mori, YouGov, ICM, ComRes and in Scotland, TNS-BRMB.
Politicians have mixed views about opinion polls. They like to refer to opinion polls when their party appears to be doing well but will make critical comments when the polls are against them. Overall, however, politicians do take opinion polls seriously and use them as guides to whether the policies they favour are supported by the public.
Do opinion polls affect results? This is a difficult question to answer. If polls regularly show one party ahead then these may encourage voters to think that one party will definitely win the next election and this may discourage some from voting. On the other hand, some people like to ‘vote for a winner’ and may ‘jump on the bandwagon’. In some countries opinion polls are banned close to an election in case they are seen to influence voters.
Ask you teacher to let you see the latest opinion poll.
Opinion Poll: Voting Intentions for UK General Election in Scotland March – May 2015. (Figures in percentage %. Source: YouGov)
Date / Party Conservative Labour Liberal Scottish Democrat National Party March 2015 16 29 3 46 April 2015 17 25 5 49 May 2015 15 26 7 49
Heading: Opinion Polls
1. What are opinion polls?
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2. Name five polling organisations.
3. Explain why politicians can both like and dislike opinion polls.
4. Explain why opinion polls are banned close to an election.
5. The Scottish opinion polls between March and May 2015 were good news for the SNP. The SNP were the only party to see their support rise. Casey Maclachlan
Using only what is written on page 20, provide one piece of information to support the view of Casey and one piece of information to oppose the view of Casey.
6. Complete a bar graph to show the results of the opinion polls in Scotland from March – April - May 2015. Draw you bar graph out as shown in the example below.
Voting Intentions for UK General Election in Scotland (percentage %) March – May 2015
50 -
40 -
30 - Percentage (%) 20 -
10 -
0 M/Ap/M M/Ap/M M/Ap/M M/Ap/M Conservative Labour Lib Dems SNP
Extension – Reviewing Sources To access on web click here
You are researching the issue of whether or not Scotland should be an independent country. You come across this source.
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1. Give one reason why this source might be a useful source for your research (Clue: can you check where source came from?)
2. Give one reason why source might not be useful. (Clue: check the date of the source.)
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Lesson 12 - Learning Intentions (Pupils should be able to):
1. Explain why the Scottish Parliament was set up.
The Government of Scotland
Although Scotland has been part of the United Kingdom since 1707, Scotland has always retained its own identity. For example, Scotland shares a common language and currency with the rest of the UK but it has its own legal and education systems. In the same way, Scottish people may be a part of the British Olympic team but there are also separate Scottish football and rugby teams. See also PowerPoint ‘Scottish and British’.
As a result of this distinct identity, many people have long seen themselves as both Scottish and British. However, in the last thirty years, a growing number of Scots have started to see themselves as Scottish only and, as a result, there have been increasing calls for more decisions about Scotland to be made in Scotland rather than at the UK Parliament in Westminster, London. This is known as devolution.
Why was the Scottish Parliament set up?
In 1979 a referendum (special vote) was held asking the people of Scotland if they wanted a Scottish Parliament. However, the Conservative Government at that time decided that not enough Scots wanted a Scottish Parliament so all decisions for Scotland would continue to be made from Westminster.
Throughout the 1980s and for most of the 1990s the Conservative Party were in power in Westminster despite the Conservatives having little support in Scotland. As many Scots were unhappy with the Conservatives, pressure grew for the creation of a Scottish Parliament. However, the Conservative Government were strongly against devolution so there was no change.
In 1997 a new Labour Government was elected to power with a commitment to devolution for Scotland. However, before a Scottish Parliament could be set up a second referendum was held. This time a clear majority of Scots (74%) voted in favour of a Scottish Parliament. Two years
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later, on 1 July 1999, the Scottish Parliament was opened at Holyrood in Edinburgh. Heading: The Government of Scotland
1. In what two ways can Scotland be said to have its own distinct identity?
2. In what two ways can Scotland be said to be linked to the rest of the UK?
3. What is meant by devolution?
4. The Conservatives were popular in Scotland in the 1980s and 1990s. The Conservatives were against devolution. Labour were elected in 1997 with a commitment to a Scottish Parliament. A second referendum was held. Everyone in Scotland voted for the setting up of a Scottish Parliament. Cally Taylor
Choose two statements which are made by Cally which are exaggerated. Give a reason for each of your answers.
5. Complete a diagram in your jotter to show the ways in which the people of Scotland are both Scottish and British.
Extension – Voting trends in Scotland, UK General Elections 1979-2015
Study the information in the table below then answer the question which follows.
Scottish Voting Trends: Main Parties Share of Vote UK General Elections 1979 – 2015
1979 1983 1987 1992 1997 2001 2005 2010 2015 Conservatives 31 28 24 26 17.5 15.6 15.8 16.7 14.9 Labour 41.5 35 42 39 46 40 39.5 42 24.3 Liberal 9 24.5 19 13 13 16.4 22.6 18.9 7.5 Democrats SNP 17 11 14 21.5 22 20 17.7 19.9 50.0 i) Describe the trend (up, down, stay same) in voting for each of the parties in the table above. ii) Which party has increased its electoral support most in recent years? iii) Which party has seen its electoral support fall most in recent years? iv) What conclusion can be drawn about how Scots feel (more Scottish or more British)?
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Further Learning – Collect a copy of “Democracy in Scotland and the UK”. Read pages 7 and 8. Complete Q3 and Q4 page 9. Lesson 13 - Learning Intentions (Pupils should be able to):
1. Describe the different powers of the Scottish and UK Parliaments.
The Powers of the Scottish and UK Parliaments
The powers of the Scottish Parliament have been devolved from the UK Parliament. These were listed in the Scotland Act (1998). However, the UK Parliament still takes decisions for Scotland in some areas. Examples of the powers of the Scottish and UK Parliaments include:
Scottish Parliament UK Parliament (Devolved powers) (Reserved powers) Health – The NHS in Scotland Constitutional Affairs – Decisions (hospitals, GP services etc.) on devolution for Scotland, Wales Education – Nurseries, schools, colleges and N. Ireland and universities Defence – The army, navy and air Local Government – Responsibility for force 32 local councils to deliver services Foreign Affairs – Relations with such as cleansing, roads and social care other countries e.g. the EU or the Law and Home Affairs – Criminal law, USA civil law, the police, court and prison Central Economic Policy – Some services, the fire service taxes including business taxes Environment – Environmental Social Security – Benefit rates and protection, flood prevention etc. entitlement Sports and the Arts – Promotion of Other – Immigration, abortion and sports, museums, historic buildings etc. drug control
BBC - Higher Bitesize Modern Studies - Devolved decision making in Scotland: Revision How the Parliament Works - Visit & Learn : Scottish Parliament
Heading: The Powers of the Scottish and UK Parliaments
1. Using the information above, which Parliament would:
i) Increase the pay of nurses ii) Send troops to war iii) Recruit more police officers iv) Increase Child Benefit payments
2. Using a double page in your jotter, complete a diagram to show the powers of the Scottish Parliament and the powers of the UK Parliament.
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Extension – Using the internet, name four recent Acts of the Scottish Parliament. Further Learning – Collect a copy of “Democracy in Scotland and the UK”. Read pages 78-81. Complete Q1-Q9 page 81. Lesson 14 - Learning Intentions (Pupils should be able to):
1. Describe the additional powers given to the Scottish Parliament in the Scotland Act 2012. 2. Better draw conclusions from statistical evidence.
Scotland Act 2012 becomes Law (BBC website 1 May 2012)
New legislation will allow MSPs to have more powers. As well as bringing in a new Scottish rate of income tax and borrowing powers worth £5bn, the Scotland Act (2012) will hand powers over air guns, drink-driving and speeding limits to Holyrood. It will also devolve stamp duty, land tax and landfill tax. In addition, there will be new procedures for Scottish criminal cases that go to the UK Supreme Court.
The bill officially became law after receiving Royal Assent, but Holyrood will not be able to use the new powers, in full, until 2016.
The SNP’s Bruce Crawford backed the Scotland Bill but said it was a “missed opportunity” and that the legislation could have gone further. For the SNP only independence would deliver Scotland the powers it needed. However, Scottish Secretary Michael Moore said the Act represented the biggest transfer of money power to Scotland in more than 300 years. He believed the new devolved powers would give Scotland greater opportunities for the Scottish Parliament to improve Scotland while at the same time remaining part of a strong UK.
Heading: Scotland Act 2012
1. Complete a spider diagram to show the new powers devolved to the Scottish Parliament by the Scotland Act 2012. Make six points in your diagram.
2. The Scottish Parliament will be able to use its new powers immediately. Iona Smith
What information is there in the passage to oppose the view of Iona?
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3. Bruce Crawford (SNP Scottish Government) and Michael Moore (UK Government) have different views on the Scotland Act 2012. What are these different views?
4. Based on what you have learned, do you think the Scotland Act provides the Scottish Parliament with the additional powers it needs to improve Scotland?
5. Study the information below then answer the question which follows
Opinion Polls on Scottish Independence 2014-15 Do you agree that Scotland should be an independent country?
Date Yes No Undecided January 2014 37 42 29 September 2014 45 50 5 May 2015 50 44 6
Using only the information in the table, what conclusions can be drawn about:
• Support for Scottish independence between January 2014 and May 2015? • The number of people undecided on Scottish independence?
Extension - Read the passage below then complete the activity which follows.
Scottish Parliament uses new powers to lower drink- driving limits (BBC Dec. 2014)
A new law has come into force which makes the legal drink- drive limit in Scotland lower than elsewhere in the UK. The change reduces the legal alcohol limit from 80mg to 50mg in every 100ml of blood. The limit elsewhere in the UK will remain at 80mg - the joint highest in Europe.
Police have said an average of 20 people die on Scotland's roads each year as a result of collisions involving people who were driving while over the legal alcohol limit. A further 90 were seriously injured and 340 slightly injured in 2013.
Experts have said the new 50mg limit means that an average man would be limited to just under a pint of beer or a large glass of wine, and women to half a pint of beer or a small glass of wine. But an awareness-raising campaign ahead of the change warned that "the best advice is none" - meaning people should not drink any alcohol if they intend to drive.
Motorists have also been reminded it will take longer before they are legally able to drive the morning after drinking alcohol. For most people, it takes about an hour to process one unit of alcohol - so it could take up to 12 hours to be safe to drive.
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Activity: Complete a poster in your jotter to highlight the new drink-driving limit in Scotland and the ‘no drink, no drive’ message.
Further Learning – Collect a copy of “Democracy in Scotland and the UK”. Read pages 81-84. Complete Q1-Q8 page 83. Lesson 15 - Learning Intentions (Pupils should be able to):
1. Describe the background to the 2014 independence referendum. 2. Explain the arguments for and against independence. 3. Better work together as group to form an informed view.
The Scottish Independence Referendum
For many Scottish people the additional devolved powers contained within the Scotland Act 2012 did not go far enough. Scottish nationalists or people who would like to see Scotland become an independent country separate from the United Kingdom, want the Scottish Parliament to have full decision-making power i.e. nationalists want all decisions for Scotland to be made in Scotland.
In 2011, the Scottish National Party (SNP) were the most popular party at the Scottish Parliament elections winning 44% of the vote. The SNP also emerged as a majority government meaning they had more MSPs than all the other parties put together. Taken together, these two SNP successes meant that the SNP were in a position to ask the UK government for a referendum (single issue vote) on whether or not the people of Scotland would like to become independent from the UK. In 2011 and 2012, there were negotiations between the Scottish and UK governments and after much discussion it was agreed to hold a referendum on Scottish independence on 18 September 2014.
Referendum opponents: “Yes Scotland” and “Better Together”
By the spring of 2014, two opposing groups had been established to campaign for and against independence for Scotland. One group “Yes Scotland” campaigned for a “Yes” vote for independence; “Better Together” campaigned for a “No” vote asking the people of Scotland to vote to keep Scotland part of
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the UK. Those who campaigned for “Yes Scotland” included the Scottish National Party (SNP), the Green Party and the Scottish Socialist Part. Those who campaigned for a “No” vote included the Scottish Labour Party, the Scottish Liberal Democrat Party and the Scottish Conservative Party. Heading: The Scottish Independence Referendum
1. What is the aim of people who call themselves ‘Scottish nationalists’?
2 Explain why the SNP felt in 2011 they were in a position to ask the UK government for a referendum on independence? Make two points in your answer.
3. What were the names of the two campaign groups for and against independence?
4. Which political parties backed independence and which political parties wanted Scotland to remain within the UK?
5. Study the table below then answer the question that follows.
Arguments for and against independence for Scotland “Yes Scotland” “Better Together”
1. Decisions about 1. The UK is a successful Scotland are best made union by the people who live Scotland has been part of here the UK for over 300 years. Scotland Governments formed at Westminster shares a common language, history and often do not reflect the majority vote in culture with the rest of the UK. Scotland. With independence, Scotland would always get the government it voted 2. Being part of the UK offers more for. economic security As part of the UK Scotland has enjoyed 2. Scotland can be a successful country good trade relations and this has brought in its own right wealth and economic prosperity. This The Scottish Government says statistics would be threatened if Scotland was show an independent Scotland would be independent. one of the wealthiest countries in the world. 3. Jobs could be lost Edinburgh is recognised as a major 3. An independent Scotland would make centre for the financial services decisions that reflected Scottish industry. Banks and finance companies priorities could move operations south of the Devolution has allowed Scotland to make Border leading to serious job losses. is own decisions on issues such as health
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and education. 4. No-one knows what currency 4. Independence would be a declaration Scotland would use of confidence in ourselves and our Opponent of independence are unclear as nation to which currency Scotland would use if The Scottish Government claims independent. If Scotland retained independence would release a period of sterling (the pound) it would be using a energy, effort and ambition with the foreign currency. Better Together also power to realise people’s hopes and claim that most Scots do not want the expectations and transform the country. euro.
5. Scotland could get rid of Trident 5. Scotland would have less influence in the world Getting rid of nuclear weapons from The UK has a permanent place on the Scotland is morally correct and would United Nations Security Council and is save money. one of the largest member states in the European Union. Scotland on its own 6. North Sea oil revenues would be put would have less influence in the world. to good use 6. Security is better on a UK-wide Up until now, tax revenue from North basis Sea oil has gone to the UK Treasury. All Security is better handled UK wide. the money from North Sea oil would Threats of terrorism or crime can be come to Scotland. reduced more effectively as part of a UK government.
5. Choose two arguments for independence and two arguments against independence and copy these into your jotter.
6. Are you for or against independence? Give at least one reason for your answer.
Extension: Copy the “Yes Scotland” and the “Better Together” logos into your jotter.
Further Learning: Rebutting (‘knocking down’) opposing arguments
Your teacher will divide the class into groups.
Each group should consider either the arguments for independence or the arguments against independence and then try and think of a reason to rebut (oppose) these arguments.
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Your teacher will ask different members of the group to feedback to the class at the end of the lesson.
Further Learning – Collect a copy of “Democracy in Scotland and the UK”. Read pages 87 and 88 and complete Q1-5 page 88.
16. Learning Intentions (Pupils should be able to): 1. Better make judgements on statistics.
Scottish Independence Referendum Result
Scotland has voted to stay in the United Kingdom after voters decisively rejected independence. With the results in from all 32 council areas, the “No” side won with 2,001,926 votes over 1,617,989 for ‘Yes’. Scottish referendum: Scotland votes 'No' to independence - BBC News
First Minister Alex Salmond urged the unionist parties to deliver on more powers. Prime Minister David Cameron said he was delighted the UK would remain together and that commitments on extra powers would be honoured "in full".
Mr Cameron said the three main unionist parties at Westminster would now follow through with their pledge of more powers (“the vow”) for the Scottish Parliament. He announced that Lord Smith of Kelvin would oversee the process to take forward the commitments, with new powers over tax, spending and welfare to be agreed by November, and draft legislation published by January.
Heading: Scottish Independence Referendum Result.
1. Complete a bar chart in your jotter to show the result of the 2014 Scottish independence referendum. Give it a heading as well as details in the X and Y axis.
2. What did David Cameron promise to do if Scotland stayed in the UK?
3. Study each of the Sources on page 31 then answer the questions below.
4. Name two areas where the Scottish Parliament will get new powers.
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a) Source 1: What conclusion can be drawn about the link between age and the percentage (%) of people voting “No” in the Scottish independence referendum? b) Source 2: What conclusion can be drawn about the link between the percentage (%) of population in ‘employment deprivation’ and people voting “No” in the Scottish independence referendum? c) Source 3: What conclusions can be drawn about the link between the percentage (%) of the population voting “Yes” in areas of highest and lowest incomes in the Scottish independence referendum? Source 1 – Percentage (%) “Yes” and “No” voters by age group
Source 2 – Percentage (%) of population in ‘employment deprivation’ by local authority areas with highest and lowest “Yes” vote
Source 3 – Percentage (%) of population on a low-income in the areas with highest and lowest “Yes” vote
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All sources: Lord Ashcroft, Daily Mirror website, 2014
Extension – “The Vow”
Read the information below then complete the activity which follows.
Two days before the independence referendum the leaders of the three main UK parties – David Cameron, Ed Miliband and Nick Clegg – appeared on the front page of the Daily Record newspaper promising more powers for Scotland (further devolution) if Scotland remained within the UK. The promise of extra devolved powers became known as “the vow”.
After Scotland voted “No” in the referendum, political leaders in Scotland quickly set up the Smith Commission (under Lord Smith of Kelvin, pictured right) to propose further new powers for the Scottish Parliament. Six new powers destined for the Scottish Parliament - BBC News (See clip 3 – Votes for 16 and 17 year olds.)
Proposed New Powers (as at May 2015)
Among the new powers proposed by the Smith Commission are:
• Full power over income tax (tax on earnings) in Scotland • More powers to borrow money • A percentage of VAT (tax on spending) to remain in Scotland • Control over some welfare benefits e.g. Disability Living Allowance • Power to allow 16 and 17 year olds to vote in Scottish Parliament elections
Reaction
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Although Lord Smith was thanked for his report by the Prime Minister, many politicians, including First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, feel the proposed new powers do not go far enough or that have been properly thought through e.g. Jack McConnell (former First Minister). Mr McConnell has called for a delay and for a constitutional convention to investigate extra powers for Scotland.
Activities – You Decide!
1. Copy the list of additional powers for the Scottish Parliament into your jotter.
2. You are Scotland’s new First Minister. The people of Scotland are looking to you to make Scotland a better country. If you had more powers, make a list of the ways you would want to change Scotland and where you would want to spend more money / less money.
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Lesson 17 - Learning Intentions (Pupils should be able to):
1. Explain the way in which the electoral system used to elect Members of the Scottish Parliament (MSPs) works. 2. Describe the advantages and disadvantages of the Additional Member System (AMS).
The Scottish Parliament Electoral System
Elections to the Scottish Parliament are decided by an electoral system called the Additional Member System or AMS. AMS is a form of proportional representation (PR).
The way in which the Additional Member System (AMS) works
With the AMS voters are given a ballot paper which asks them to record two (‘X’) votes. The first vote (right side of ballot paper; coloured purple) is for an area or constituency MSP. In the constituency vote the person with the most votes wins. In 2016, in Dundee City East, Shona Robison had the highest number of votes so she was elected. Shona is one of 73 MSPs elected in constituencies.
Scottish Parliament Dundee City East Constituency Vote 2016
Shona Robison (SNP) 16,509 Richard McCready (Labour) 5,611 Bill Bowman (Conservative) 4,969 Craig Duncan (Liberal Democrats) 911 Majority 10,898 Electorate 55,500 Turnout 51.5%
Second Vote Proportionality
As AMS is a form of proportional representation voters are also given the opportunity to vote for a political party (left side of ballot paper; coloured
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buff). Once all the first votes are counted and MSPs elected, this second vote is used to make the overall representation in the Scottish Parliament fair to all political parties.
How does the second vote work?
After all the constituency votes are counted, additional MSPs are allocated to each of eight Scottish parliamentary regions (Dundee City West is in the parliamentary region of North East Scotland) to make the overall result proportional. For example, in 2016 the Conservative Party were given four additional (or list) MSPs in North East Scotland region as they only returned one constituency MSPs. This gives Conservative Party voters fair representation in proportion to their political support in the North East of Scotland.
There are 56 additional regional MSPs (7 per region). When added to the 73 constituency MSPs this makes 129 MSPs altogether.
Video: http://www.bbc.co.uk/education/clips/z6bhyrd
Heading: The Scottish Parliamentary Electoral System
1. Copy and complete the passage below using the words in the box below it.
In elections to the ______voters get two ballot papers. The first ballot paper is for their constituency MSP. In the first ballot it is the person with the most ______who wins. In Dundee City
East in 2016 ______was elected. The second ballot paper is for a political party. Once all the votes are counted ______
______are then allocated to each of the parties across all the regions of Scotland to make the overall result ______. votes additional MSPs Scottish Parliament Shona Robison proportional
2. Study the election result for Dundee City West on page 33 and the statement below, then answer the question which follows.
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Shona Robison won the Scottish Parliamentary constituency of Dundee City East in 2016. Over half the electorate turned out to vote. Shona Robison’s majority was nearly 20,000. The Labour Party candidate came last. Summer Rodger
Using the information on page 33, choose two sentences which are made by Summer which are exaggerated. Give a reason for each of your choices.
3. Study the table below then answer the question which follows.
Source 1: 2016 Scottish Parliament Election Result
Constituency Vote List Vote Total MSPs
Party % MSPs % MSPs (129)
Conservative 22.0 7 22.9 24 31 Labour 22.6 3 19.1 21 24 Lib Dems 7.8 4 5.2 1 5 SNP 46.5 59 20.9 4 63 Others 1.1 0 11.0 6 0
The Scottish National Party (SNP) did best in the Scottish Parliament election of 2016. The Labour Party got more List MSPs than constituency MSPs. Kaysae Butler
What information is there in Source 1 to support the view of Kaysae. Make two points.
4. Collect a copy of “Living in a Democracy”. Read pages 21 and 22 then answer questions 2 to 4 on page 22.
Extension – Comparing the 2011 and 2016 Scottish Parliament Election Results
Source 2: Scottish Parliament Election Result 2011
Constituency Vote List Vote Total MSPs
Party % MSPs % MSPs (129)
Conservative 13.9 3 12.4 12 15 Labour 31.7 15 26.3 22 37 Lib Dems 7.9 2 5.2 3 5 SNP 45.4 53 44.0 16 69 Others 1.1 0 12.1 3 3
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Study Source 2, the Scottish Parliament election result 2011, and then compare with Source 1 the Scottish Parliament Election Result 2016.
“All parties did better in the 2016 Scottish Parliament election compared to the 2011 Scottish parliament election. Navada Haggart
What information is there to support and oppose the view of Navada?
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Lesson 18 - Learning Intentions (Pupils should be able to):
1. Describe the way in which the Scottish Parliament works.
The way in which the Scottish Parliament works
The Scottish Parliament works in a similar way to that of most other parliaments around the world. Within the parliament, MSPs can hold debates and make new laws within the areas for which the Scottish Parliament has responsibility. MSPs also work in committees where the work of the Scottish Government is monitored. Importantly, the parliament and the MSPs within it, have responsibility for spending the parliament’s budget.
The procedures of the Scottish Parliament are overseen by the Presiding Officer. It is the Presiding Officer’s responsibility to ensure that the rules of the parliament are followed and that MSPs conduct themselves appropriately. The Presiding Officer in 2017 was Ken McIntosh MSP.
A Modern Parliament
The layout of the Scottish Parliament is different for the UK Parliament at Westminster. As can be seen from the picture the Chamber, where all 129 MSPs meet, is in a horseshoe shape. Another difference is that MSPs sit at desks (not on benches) where they vote electronically. Finally, the hours that the Scottish Parliament operates are also different. MSPs work, in the main, a 9am to 5pm day unlike Westminster which starts and finishes much later in the day. When the Scottish Parliament was established it was hoped that the change of working hours would encourage more women with children to put themselves forward for election.
Heading: The way in which the Scottish Parliament works
1. Describe the range of work undertaken by MSPs in the Scottish Parliament. Make three points.
2. What is the job of the Presiding Officer? Make two points.
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3. What differences are there in the ways in which the Scottish and UK Parliaments work? Make two points in your answer.
4. Study the table below then answer the question which follows.
All the main political parties in Scotland have women MSPs. In 2016, there were more female MSPs from the SNP than all the other parties put together.
Megan Cownie
Using only the information in the table above, give one reason to support the view of Megan and one reason to oppose the view of Megan.
Extension – Comparing female representation in the Scottish Parliament
Using the internet (calculator / access from phone is acceptable), find out: a) The percentage of female MSPs in the Scottish Parliament? b) The percentage of female MPs in the UK Parliament? c) The country with the highest percentage of female representatives in the world. d) What conclusion can be drawn about female representation in the Scottish Parliament compared to the UK Parliament and the rest of the world?
Further Learning - Collect a copy of “Living in a Democracy”. Read page 77 then complete Q4, Q7 and Q8 page 77.
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Lesson 19 - Learning Intentions (Pupils should be able to):
1. Explain the role of the Scottish government and the First Minister.
The Scottish Government and the First Minister
The party or parties that win the election form the Scottish government. In 2016 this was the SNP. The leader of the Scottish government is known as the First Minister for Scotland.
Each department of the Scottish government e.g. Education and Lifelong Learning is led by a minister (in 2017, John Swinney pictured right) who is responsible to the Scottish Parliament for the work of their department. Each minister is supported by a number of junior Scottish ministers who, in turn, are supported by civil servants or government employees.
In theory, any MSP can become First Minister for Scotland. In practice, it is the leader of the party with the most MSPs as it is the MSPs who vote to elect the First Minister. After the election of 2016, the party with the most MSPs was the SNP and so Nicola Sturgeon was re-elected as First Minister. Note: In 2014, after the referendum debate, Alex Salmond stepped down as First Minister and leader of the SNP and he was replaced by Nicola Sturgeon, Scotland’s first female First Minister.
The responsibilities of the First Minister for Scotland are varied. They include:
• Representing Scotland at home and abroad as the leader of the country • Deciding the number of Scottish cabinet ministers and their responsibilities • Setting the priorities for the Scottish government. In practice this means deciding which policies go ahead and allocating additional resources • Chairing cabinet meetings • Appointing law officers and judges to Scotland’s highest court
Heading: The Scottish Government and the First Minister
1. Explain why the SNP formed the Scottish government after the 2016 election.
2. What is the job of a government minister? Give an example in your answer.
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3. What are civil servants?
4. Explain the way in which the First Minister is chosen.
5. Outline three of the responsibilities of the First Minister for Scotland.
6. Study the two views below then answer the question which follows.
Scottish Government Effective Scottish Government A Let Down
The SNP Scottish government have I’ll not be voting for the SNP been good for Scotland over the past Scottish government at the next few years. Policies such as such as election. Too many of their policies free prescriptions for all and no are expensive to fund and have university tuition fees have made wasted taxpayers’ money. Most people Scotland a better place to live. The who needed free prescriptions were SNP got my vote last time. I’ll be already entitled to them before the voting for them again next time. SNP made them free to everyone. Liam McMillan Ben Somerville Liam and Ben have different views about the SNP Scottish Government. What are these differences? Make two points in your answer.
Extension - Study both graphs below then answer the question which follows.
Graph 1: Are you satisfied (top line) or dissatisfied (bottom line) about the way in which the Scottish government is running the country?
Graph 2: Approval rating, men (top line) and women (bottom line), about the way in which the Scottish government is running the country?
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What conclusions can be drawn about what people think about the way in which the Scottish government is running the country? Answer using both tables.
Lesson 20 - Learning Intentions (Pupils should be able to):
1. Better access and record information from the internet. 2. Better understand the work of MSPs and the Scottish Parliament.
Scottish Parliament ICT Lesson
• Using Google, type ‘Scottish Parliament’ • Click on Scottish Parliament ‘Home’ • Click on MSPs (purple bar across top of screen) • Click on ‘Current MSPs’ (left of screen)
1. Find information on Robison MSP for Dundee City East: a) Which political party is Shona Robison a member of? b) Shona Robison is Minister for which area of the Scottish government? c) Give details of two ways that Shona can be contacted. d) Click on Shona’s website (right of screen). Describe one way Shona has been working to represent the people of Dundee East.
2. Open another tab and using Google a) Find out the names of the following MSPs: The leader of the SNP, the leader of the Scottish Conservatives, the leader of the Scottish Liberal Democrats and the leader of the Scottish Labour Party. b) Using the Scottish Parliament website, name the constituency each party leader represents.
Click on tab for the ‘Home’ page (and return to Home page after each question 3-5.) 3. What business will take place today in the Scottish Parliament Chamber? Make two points. 4. Which two topical questions are to be asked in the Chamber today? 5. Describe what is happening today in one of the Scottish Parliament’s committees.
Use the ‘Search’ facility to answer question 6.
Type ‘Presiding Officer’ in the Search box. Click on the link at the end of the search.
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6. Who is the presiding officer and what job do they do in the Scottish Parliament?
Click ‘Home’; click ‘Visit and Learn’; click ‘Explore Parliament’; click ‘Powers of the Parliament’ for Q7 and ‘What can MSPs do?’ for Q8.
7. “The Scottish Parliament can make decisions on all areas of the lives of the people of Scotland. Amy Cunningham
What information is there to oppose the view of Amy? Make two points.
8. “MSPs do a great deal of work in the Scottish Parliament.” Leah Devlin
What information is there to support the view of Leah? Make three points.
Extension - Click on ‘Home’ page. Click on ‘Fun and Games’ and try the ‘Games’
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Lesson 21- Learning Intentions (Pupils should be able to):
1. Describe the ways in which MSPs work on behalf of the people they represent in the Scottish Parliament.
The Work of an MSP (1)
MSPs work on behalf of their constituents in two main ways:
1. The work they do in the Scottish Parliament 2. The work they do in their constituency or region if a List MSP
The work of an MSP in the Scottish Parliament
Committee Work
On Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday mornings, most MSPs may take part in one of the many committees (smaller groups of MSPs) of the Scottish Parliament. Some committees e.g. the Health Committee are permanent and meet weekly to review the work of the Scottish Government. Other committees are only temporary and are set up to investigate issues or make recommendations e.g. the Devolution (Further Powers) Committee (pictured) which is investigating additional devolved powers for the Scottish Parliament. All committees are made up of between 5 and 15 MSPs although any MSP has the right to attend a committee meeting and to ask questions. When sitting on a committee MSPs represent the people of their area by:
• Asking questions e.g. of Ministers or of experts for information • Using a committee to change an existing law • Voting on whether or not new law should be passed
In the Chamber (Meetings of the full parliament)
On Tuesday, Wednesday and from 11.30am on Thursday, MSPs have the opportunity to attend debates in the Chamber of the Scottish Parliament. There MSPs represent the people of their area by:
• Speaking in a debate or voting for or against a motion (proposal)
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• Suggesting an amendment to a motion or introducing a new law (a bill) • On a Thursday MSPs have the opportunity to question the First Minister
Video: http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/visitandlearn/25490.aspx
Other work in the Scottish Parliament
Most MSPs are also members of political parties. As a result they will also spend time attending party meetings discussing common issues with other MSPs from the same party. Finally, when an MSP is in the parliament but not in a committee meeting or in the Chamber, they may deal with correspondence (letters, emails, etc.) from their constituents or meet members of the public or from pressure groups who are visiting the parliament.
Heading: The work of an MSP in the Scottish Parliament
1. Complete two spider diagrams:
- One diagram to show the ways in which MSPs represent their constituents in committees of the Scottish Parliament - A second diagram to show the ways in which MSPs represent their constituents in the Chamber of the Scottish Parliament
2. Read the statement below then answer the question which follows.
MSPs are busy people when at the Scottish Parliament. MSPs spend all their time in committees or in the Chamber of the Scottish Parliament. On Thursdays, MSPs can put questions to the First Minister for Scotland. Sian Gilmore
Choose one sentence that is made by Sian which is exaggerated. Give a reason for your choice.
3. Imagine you have the opportunity to question the First Minister for Scotland. What questions would you ask? Give two examples.
4. You decide to visit the Scottish Parliament to meet your MSP. Place in order the following actions in preparation for a visit to the Scottish Parliament.
• Book a train ticket • Make up questions to ask your MSP • Send an email as a thank you • Ask permission from the school to visit your MSP
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• Send an email to ask your MSP for a time/date to meet you at the SP 5. Study the table below then answer the question which follows.
Diary of Joe Bloggs MSP
Monday Thursday
9am – Local constituency office 9am – Answer local constituency 11am – Meet Dundee City Council emails leaders 10am – Transport Committee 4pm – Meeting with local party 12 noon – Ask question to First members Minster 2pm – Meet constituents in Parliament 7pm – Train back to Dundee Tuesday Friday
7am – Leave for the Scottish 10am – Visit to Braeview Academy S3 Parliament Modern Studies (‘fabbie’) 2pm – Lobby Minister of Transport 3pm – Meet local councillors 5pm – Vote in Chamber 7pm – Surgery (Fintry) Wednesday Saturday / Sunday
9am – Meet parliamentary colleagues Sat am. – Surgery (Whitfield) 10am – Transport Committee 3pm – Tannadice: Best place to be! 2pm – Speak in transport debate Sunday – Read newspapers / take kids 5pm – Vote in Chamber to Olympia / get ready for next week
Using only the information in Joe’s diary, give two examples of where Joe is representing constituents in the Scottish Parliament. Give a reason to explain each of your choices.
6. MSPs earn around £58,100 per year. Do you think MSPs are worth this salary? Give a reason for your answer.
Extension - Collect a copy of “Living in a Democracy”. Read pages 68 to 71 then complete Q1-Q15 page 71.
Further Learning – BYOD • Visit the Scottish Parliament Education website (Education: Visit and Learn) • Click on the last box (Parliament in Depth) • Click on ‘Work of MSPs’ • Click on ‘What MSPs do to represent you’
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1. What number of Bills (proposed new laws) can MSPs introduce in a session? 2. What is ‘decision time’? 3. Explain the way in which you find out the way an MSP voted in the parliament? Lesson 22 - Learning Intentions (Pupils should be able to): 1. Describe the ways in which MSPs work on behalf of the people they represent in the constituency or region.
The Work of an MSP (2)
The work of an MSP in the constituency or region
MSPs have to respond to letters and emails sent to the constituency address from local people and organisations who want their support. They attend meetings and events where they meet and discuss important issues with groups of constituents. MSPs also hold surgeries were members of the public can go and talk with them.
Case Study – Jonathon Martin
Jonathon Martin is a keen sportsman. He is concerned at the lack of facilities available for people with disabilities in his local area and in Scotland. He wants to let his local MSP know about his concerns and to ask that there are improvements in sports facilities and disabled access.
1. He writes to his constituency MSP and all seven regional MSPs.
2. He visits two of his MSPs at their surgery.
3. One of his MSPs is on the Equal Opportunities Committee. He visits her at the Scottish Parliament and observes the committee at work.
4. He organises a meeting in his local area where people can express their views and where they can meet and discuss the issues with the MSPs.
5. He organises a petition collecting over two thousand signatures that ask the MSPs to support a new law that will improve the lives of people with disabilities.
The Ways in which the MSPs represent Jonathon
• One MSP raises the question of disabled access to public buildings in the Equal Opportunities Committee. The Committee agree to further investigate the issue.
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• A question is put to the relevant minister in a debate on equality. • One of the MSPs promises to introduce a Member’s Bill into parliament to improve disabled access throughout Scotland. • An MSP holds a meeting with Jonathon’s local councillor to try and persuade the local council to improve access at the local sports centre.
Video: BBC Bitesize - National 4 Modern Studies - The work of an MSP
Heading: The work of an MSP in the constituency or region
1. In what ways did Jonathon go about getting the support of his MSPs? Make three points.
2. Jonathon was poorly represented by his MSPs. Skye Mackie
What information is there to oppose the view of Skye? Make three points.
3. MSPs will always get their constituents what they want. Summer Rodger
Do you agree or disagree with Summer. Give a reason for your answer.
4. Study the two views then answer the question which follows.
MSPs Make a Difference No Use Whatsoever
I think MSPs do a good job in MSPs make very little difference in representing the people of Scotland. the lives of people they are supposed I contacted the council a few months to represent. I visited my ago to get the streetlights outside my constituency MSP at their surgery as home repaired but nothing happened. I was unhappy with the way my However, after my constituency MSP complaint against the local hospital sent a letter to the council on my had been handled. However, two behalf the streetlights were repaired months on, I’ve not heard from the within a week. MSPs make a hospital or my MSP. MSPs do not do a difference in the lives of their good job of representing the people constituents. of Scotland. Iona Smith Cally Taylor
a) Iona and Cally have a different view about the success of MSPs in representing people in their area. What is this difference? b) Explain why Iona and Cally may have different views on MSPs and their success in representing people in their area.
5. BYOD – Using your mobile, find out what Shona Robison MSP has being doing in a) the local area. Visit his website: Shona Robison
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b) What has Shona being doing in the Scottish Parliament? Visit: Shona Robison - speeches, voting, motions, questions.
Extension - Collect a copy of “Living in a Democracy”. Read pages 71-74. Complete Q1-Q9 page 74.
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Lesson 23 - Learning Intentions (Pupils should be able to):
1. Describe the ways MSPs can be contacted. 2. Better write a formal letter.
Contacting Your MSP
The job of an elected MSP (or any other representative) is to speak and act on behalf of their constituents. However, your representative cannot make your views known unless you get in contact with them. There are several ways to do this:
By telephone Visit MSP at surgery
Write a letter Join a pressure group
Write to the newspapers Send an email
Heading: Contacting Your MSP
1. Copy the diagram above into your jotter.
2. Choose two of the ways of contacting your MSP. For each way of contacting an MSP, give one advantage and one disadvantage of this way of contacting an MSP.
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3. Which method contacting an MSP do you think is most effective in getting your MSP to support you with your issue? Give a reason for your answer. 4. Draft a letter to your MSP on an issue that concerns you e.g. education, youth employment, healthcare, crime in your area, etc. You should tell your MSP your problem and what you want them to do about it. To help you get started the structure of a formal letter is given below.
Modern Studies Department Braeview Academy Yarrow Terrace Dundee DD4 0NL
(Today’s date) Shona Robison MSP The Scottish Parliament Edinburgh EH99 1SP
Dear Ms Robison,
I would like to draw your attention to
I trust I can count on your support in this matter.
Yours sincerely,
(Sign name)
Extension – Study the table below then answer the question which follows.
Ethnic Minority Representation in the Scottish Parliament Scotland 2011 results and past candidates MSPs elected 2011 2007 2003 1999 Women 45 43 51 48 (%) 34.88 33.33 39.53 37.21 Men 83 86 78 81 (%) 64.34 66.67 60.47 62.79 Ethnic minority 2 1 0 0 (%) 1.55 0.78 0 0
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The number of women MSPs has increased in the Scottish Parliament from 1999. There are few ethnic minority MSPs in the Scottish Parliament. Casey Maclachlan
Using only the table above, give one piece of information to support the view of Blair Perrie and one piece of information to oppose the view of Casey. Lesson 24 - Learning Intentions (Pupils should be able to):
1. Assess the impact of the Scottish Parliament on the lives of Scottish people. 2. Work better in groups and improve confidence.
Impact of the Scottish Parliament
Since the Scottish Parliament was established in 1999, several hundred pieces of legislation (or new laws) have been passed with the aim of making Scotland a better place to live. Examples of legislation that been passed by the parliament include: the introduction of ‘free personal care’ for the elderly; a ban on smoking in enclosed public places and legislation that seeks to end homelessness in Scotland.
ICT / Co-operative Learning Activity
Your teacher is going to divide the class into groups. Each group is going to research one of the following pieces of legislation passed by the Scottish Parliament:
• Minimum pricing for alcohol • End to homelessness in Scotland • Children’s Commissioner • Smoking ban in enclosed public places • Votes for 16 and 17 year-olds in Scottish Parliament elections
Your notes should include information on when the legislation was introduced and what it aims to achieve.
2. Using the internet, find out more about the legislation you have been asked to investigate. Every member of the group should take notes. Sharing information is to be encouraged.
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3. Each member of the group will be paired with someone from another group. Both individuals in the pair will then explain their findings to the other. Each time the person listening should take notes.
4. The teacher will selectively ask individuals in the class to report back on what they learned from a classmate on legislation passed by the Scottish Parliament.
Lesson 25 - Learning Intentions (Pupils should be able to):
1. Explain what is meant by a pressure group. 2. Describe the ways in which pressure groups try to influence decision makers.
Pressure Groups
At elections the people decide which representatives they want to make decisions on their behalf. However, elections can be as much as four or five years apart so people must have other ways of influencing their representatives. One way is through pressure groups. Pressure groups are organisations of people with similar opinions. Pressure groups do not want power for themselves instead they want to influence those in power.
The way a pressure group works
Pressure groups use a number of different legal methods to put their views across:
1. Posting leaflets through doors or canvassing door to door.
2. Taking part in demonstrations, marches or attending rallies.
3. Organising petitions.
4. Lobbying MPs and / or MSPs.
5. Writing letters to politicians or to newspapers.
6. Giving interviews which are reported in the media (radio, TV and newspapers) or taking part in publicity stunts to gain media attention.
Watch the video clip: Pressure Groups Final Cut - YouTube
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Heading: Pressure Groups
1. What is a pressure group?
2. Pressure groups are made up of people with similar ideas. There are many different types of pressure groups. Pressure groups use a wide range of methods to get their message across. Pressure groups want the power to change things. Navada Haggart
Choose one statement that is made by Navada that is exaggerated. Give one reason for your answer.
3. Write the name of each of the six pressure groups on p50 into your jotter. For each, write the people they aim to help e.g. Shelter – homeless people.
4. Describe each of the following types of pressure group activity. The information on page 50 will help you with your answers. a. b.
c. d.
e. f.
5. Which of one the above pressure group methods do you think would be most effective? Give a reason for your choice.
6. Study the information below then answer the question which follows.
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Pressure Groups Needed Pressure Groups a Threat
Pressure groups are needed to make Pressure groups have too much sure MSPs are aware of what people power. Too often they break the law want. They are an important and in order to achieve their aims. useful part of a democracy. Government should limit the action of pressure groups. Most pressure groups are peaceful and protest remains within the law. Pressure groups are not needed in a Pressure groups allow ordinary people democracy. We elect MSPs to take to become more involved with politics. decisions for us so there is no need for pressure groups. Mrs Bailey Mr Black
Mr Black and Mrs Bailey have different views on pressure groups. What are these differences? Give two differences in your answer.
Extension - Collect a copy of “Living in a Democracy”. Read pages 106 to 111 then answer Q1-Q4 page 107, Q1-Q3 page 109 and Q2 (a-c) page 112. Lesson 26 - Learning Intentions (Pupils should be able to):
1. Explain what is meant by direct action. 2. Explain reasons why some pressure groups use direct action.
Illegal Pressure Group Action
A few pressure groups are prepared to break the law in order to try and achieve their aims. These groups often feel frustrated that the public or decision makers are ignoring their concerns. As a result, they have turned to direct action or even violence in an attempt to force change.
Direct action or civil disobedience is any form of protest that is non-violent. This may include protestors from pressure groups:
• Blocking the streets or the traffic • Chaining themselves to gates of doorways • Refusing to obey the law e.g. not paying taxes • Climbing public buildings (e.g. Greenpeace climbed the Shard’ in 2013)
A very small number of groups e.g. the Animal Liberation Front, are prepared to go beyond direct action and will use violence in an attempt to achieve their aims. Actions these pressure groups would be prepared to take including breaking and
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entering properties, theft, arson and even sending parcel bombs through the post.
Does direct action or violence work?
The problem with direct action or violence is that these risk losing the support of the public and decision makers. Protestors can go to prison. So why do it? In a democracy there are many competing influences and not everyone can get what they want. Some people are therefore ignored. If some groups feel they are ignored for too long, they may feel that protest ‘outside the law’ will give them publicity and so force decision makers to act. However, evidence would suggest that most illegal action is not successful in gaining the support of the public or decision makers as most people respect the law and are not sympathetic to those who break it.
Heading: Illegal Pressure Group Action
1. What is direct action?
2. Give three examples of direct action.
3. Describe what types of action the Animal Liberation Front may take in order to achieve their aims. Make three points.
4. Explain why a few pressure groups are prepared to use direct action or even violence to get what they want.
5. Based on what you have learned, do you think direct action or violence can be justified? Explain your answer.
Extension - Collect a copy of “Living in a Democracy”. Read pages 112-113 then answer Q1-Q6n page 113.
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